Mosquito Bite Prevention

Did you know not all mosquitos are the same?

Different mosquitos spread different viruses and bite at different times of the day.

Use insect repellent

Our pharmacist pick of the month for June is OFF! Brand insect repellent. We highly suggest using an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent with DEET as an active ingredient. It is proven safe and effective by the EPA and FDA to protect against both types of mosquitoes that carry West Nile and Zika. See below for other repellents that work well.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites

Follow directions on label. Labels now have an easier guide for strength and now long the repellent is expected to last.

Reapply insect repellent according to instructions, this will depend on which product and strength you chose.

Do not spray repellent on the skin under clothing.

If using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first then insect repellent second.

If swimming, reapply insect repellent after swimming.

Natural insect repellents (repellents not registered with EPA)

The effectiveness of non-EPA registered insect repellents, including some natural repellents, is not known.

To protect yourself against diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika, CDC and EPA recommend using an EPA-registered insect repellent.

When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective. For more information: www2.epa.gov/insect-repellents

Effectiveness of non-EPA registered insect repellents, including some natural options is not know due to lack of testing. To best protect yourself against diseases like West Nile and Zika, the CDC and EPA recommend using an EPA-registered insect repellent.

Pregnant Women and Children

Always follow instructions when applying insect repellent.

Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months of age.

Do not use products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on children less than 3 years of age. Lack of testing and evidence to suggest it is safe.

Dress in clothing that covers arms and legs then spray insect repellent on clothing to minimize exposure and absorption of insect repellent.

Use screens on windows and doors and repair holes in screens to keep mosquitos outside.

Use air conditioning when available.

Keep mosquitos from laying eggs in or near standing water. It only takes a couple tablespoons of water for mosquitos to lay eggs so throw out, turn over, empty and scrub items that hold water once a week.